JAMMU, JULY 4: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Sunil Sharma, on Saturday demanded an immediate ban on a controversial book allegedly circulated in government school libraries, accusing the Education Department of promoting “anti-national” content and calling for a high-level probe into its approval and distribution.
Addressing a press conference in Jammu, Sharma alleged that the book, “Great Personalities and Legends of J&K (Series 4)”, published by Paradise Publishers, glorifies separatists, terrorists and stone-pelters while portraying India in a negative light.
Describing the publication as lacking educational and historical value, he termed it an attempt at “academic subversion” aimed at influencing young minds.
Sharma claimed the book was approved by a committee constituted by the Education Department before being distributed to government school libraries.
“The book should be banned immediately. Those responsible for approving, publishing and distributing it must be identified and held accountable,” he said.
The BJP leader sought a comprehensive investigation into the matter, alleging that senior officials, including those at the ministerial level, should be brought under its ambit.
He also demanded the immediate dismissal of the Education Minister, alleging that the department had committed a serious lapse by allowing the book to reach government schools.
Referring to decisions taken during the Lieutenant Governor’s administration, Sharma said nearly 25 books containing similar content had earlier been withdrawn or banned and urged the government to take similar action in the present case.
Responding to questions from reporters, Sharma alleged that the publication describes individuals convicted or accused in terror-related cases as “martyrs” while ignoring the sacrifices of security personnel.
He reiterated his demand for strict action against the authors, publishers, distributors and members of the committee that approved the book, and urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government and investigating agencies to examine the matter without delay and initiate appropriate legal action against those found responsible.
